Why is acne stressing me out so much?
Acne is a complex and chronic disease with far reaching consequences. The toll that it takes has been equated to people living with chronic asthma, diabetes, back pain or arthritis. It can make you vulnerable to other people’s opinions, and insecure about your appearance.
“I’ve been treated differently by friends, family, and complete strangers. It’s affected my social life, work life and mental health. I just hate living like this.” Zoe, 38
Having clear skin sends a message to those around you about your general health. Evolutionary psychologists theorise that our ancestors learned to avoid people with seeping, inflamed, or open sores because these people were ill and could “give” others their sickness, which explains why we can be repulsed by visible skin abnormalities such as pimples, discolorations, pits and scars. It seems that this attitude is hard-wired into us, and it deeply affects how those of us with acne feel about ourselves.
Research shows that acne affects quality of life and self-esteem and as the severity of the acne increases the quality of life decreases. Acne has been linked to low self-esteem, distorted self-perception, social isolation, anxiety and depression, sexual dysfunction and . People with acne are known to avoid sport, social gatherings and interactions with potential intimate partners because of the condition of their skin. These effects are made worse by taunting and teasing, being stigmatised, and perceptions of being judged.
Honestly, I’m utterly miserable. I’m in a new relationship and I feel like cancelling our next date. How can I go out with a face like this? I can’t kiss him, and I also don’t want to discuss it with him. We’re supposed to be going away next week. John, 25
Furthermore, the scars left behind by acne are not only unsightly, but may also put a heavy emotional, financial and social strain on those affected. Suicidal thoughts and attempts, despair, anxiety, low self-esteem, social impairment, poor academic achievement, and unemployment are only some of the negative psychological outcomes that have been linked to them. People with acne need strong, and sometimes professional, emotional support.
I’m afraid to go out because of my acne, I hate looking in the mirror and my face hurts a lot. Sebastian, 17
Stress management
Telling you how to manage your stress would be a nonsense. All of us manage it in different ways. For me it’s spending time with my friends and family, exercising (especially dancing) and being out in nature. For others it’s prayer and meditation or a pet or hobby. Stay away from harmful stress management strategies like alcohol and smoking. Find your thing and do it. Do it again and do it again.
